A great night’s sleep is crucial for overall physical health, as well for emotional and mental well-being. Unfortunately, with the stress of everyday life, many people struggle with disruptive issues like insomnia, restless sleep, waking up in the middle of the night and not being able to fall back asleep and as a result, not starting the day well-rested after a night’s sleep.
While there are countless over-the-counter sleep aids on the market, many of these sleep aids have negative side effects. Primarily, leaving users feeling groggy the next morning.
A natural sleep-aid alternative gaining attention is CBG (Cannabigerol). Though not psychoactive or habit forming, CBG is the foundational cannabinoid from which virtually every other cannabinoid including CBD forms over the hemp plant's life cycle. Historically too expensive to access in its pure isolate form, CBG has shown promise in improving sleep quality without the negative side effects of traditional sleep medications. But can CBG really help with sleep? Let’s explore what science says.
What is CBG?
Cannabigerol (CBG) is one of the many cannabinoids found in cannabis plants, but it’s typically present in smaller amounts than more well-known cannabinoids like CBD or THC. CBG plays a unique role because it’s a precursor to other cannabinoids, meaning it converts into THC, CBD, and other compounds as the hemp plant matures. Despite its scarcity, CBG is being studied for various health benefits, including its potential to support better sleep.
How CBG Interacts with the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
Like other cannabinoids, CBG interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network in the body responsible for regulating sleep, mood, appetite, and immune responses. The ECS has two main receptors: CB1 and CB2. CBG has a unique interaction with these receptors—it binds to both but has a different affinity than CBD or THC. This binding can influence various physiological processes, including sleep cycles.
Research suggests that CBG may help regulate the ECS to promote homeostasis, or balance within the body, which could translate to better sleep patterns.
CBG’s Potential to Improve Sleep
While research on CBG is still emerging, several studies hint at its potential to support sleep in a few key ways:
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Reducing Anxiety and Stress
Many people struggle with sleep because of stress, anxiety, or racing thoughts. One of the most promising aspects of CBG is its ability to potentially reduce anxiety, which could, in turn, improve sleep quality. According to a 2024 study published in Scientific Reports by Nature, CBG shows significant stress-reducing and anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects when compared to placebo. These stress-reducing and anxiety-reducing effects could aid in relaxation, preparing the mind and body for sleep. -
Supporting Healthy Inflammatory Responses
Inflammation and pain can be significant contributors to poor sleep. Cannabinoids have been shown to exert powerful anti-inflammatory activity. Specifically, CBG has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce physical discomfort that keeps people awake at night. By reducing pain and discomfort, CBG may help people sleep more soundly. -
Enhancing Relaxation Without Intoxication
Unlike THC, CBG is non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t get you high. However, it still binds to CB1 receptors in the brain, which are found widely throughout the brain. This could make CBG a great option for those who want to unwind before bed without the intoxication that THC induces.
CBG vs. CBD for Sleep: Which is Better?
CBD (Cannabidiol) has long been known for its sleep-promoting benefits, but how does CBG stack up? While both cannabinoids interact with the ECS, they do so in slightly different ways.
CBD For Sleep
CBD is primarily known for its ability to reduce anxiety and calm the nervous system, which can be helpful for people who have trouble falling asleep.
CBG For Sleep
CBG, on the other hand, may have a more direct impact on improving physical comfort due to its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Additionally, CBG has affinity to bind to the central nervous system, which improves its calming and relaxing properties.
For some, a combination of both CBG and CBD could provide the best of both worlds: the relaxation from CBD and the inflammation reduction from CBG. Some studies suggest that the combination of cannabinoids can have more pronounced effects than using any cannabinoid in isolation.
How to Use CBG for Sleep
If you’re interested in trying CBG to improve your sleep, here are some tips on how to get started:
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Choose a Quality Product
Not all CBG products are created equal. Isolate (the pure form of the compound) based, nanoemulsified products (Nano CBG) have superior bioavailability, meaning you get stronger results faster. However, not all nanoemulsions are created equally, either. However, at Nano Bella, our proprietary isolate nanoemulsion technology improves the speed and volume of absorption without damaging the cannabinoid particles. Nano Bella’s Sublime Elixir, for example, is a highly concentrated source of CBG with nanoemulsification technology that allows for faster absorption. -
Start with a Medium Dose
Since research on CBG is still in its early stages, there’s no standardized dosage for sleep. Start with a medium dose and see how your body responds. You can gradually increase the amount until you find the right balance for promoting sleep. -
Use Sublingually for Best Results
CBG tinctures are typically taken sublingually (under the tongue). Hold the oil under your tongue for 30 to 60 seconds before swallowing to allow the CBG to absorb more quickly into the bloodstream. This method offers faster onset and can help you feel the effects more quickly, which is ideal when you’re preparing for bed.
The Future of CBG Research and Sleep
While current research on CBG is promising, more clinical studies are needed to fully understand how it affects sleep and other health issues. That said, early findings combined with anecdotal reports from users suggest that CBG could be a valuable natural alternative for those struggling with sleep disturbances.
Conclusion: CBG as a Sleep-Aid
CBG’s potential to improve sleep lies in its ability to reduce anxiety, inflammation, and pain—all key contributors to poor sleep. Although research is still developing, initial studies and user experiences are encouraging. If you’re looking for a natural, non-psychoactive way to enhance your sleep quality, CBG could be worth considering.
By addressing both mental and physical barriers to restful sleep, CBG offers a holistic approach to nighttime wellness. Products like Nano Bella Sublime Elixir offer the added benefits of enhanced absorption, making it easier for your body to experience the full effects of this promising cannabinoid.
References:
- Calapai, F., Cardia, L., Esposito, E., et al. (2022) Pharmacological Aspects and Biological Effects of Cannabigerol and Its synthetic derivatives, Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/3336516
- Cuttler, C., Stueber, A., Cooper, Z.D. et al (2024). Acute effects of cannabigerol on anxiety, stress, and mood: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover, field trial. Sci Rep, 14. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-66879-0